Summary

The book opens with a dedication of sorts, apparently addressed to the universe. The dedication asks the question, “How many billions upon billions of beings might call you home?” (3) On the next page, the reader learns about Syrte the Magnificent, which is the “capital of the Empire of a Thousand Planets.” (4) A prince is the purported ruler of the kingdom, though he is never seen. There is an extensive market and an open space port for traders and travelers. Some people go to the city to seek out the Enlighteneds, a sect of people who have power over the people.

Valerian and Laureline near Syrte through a series of space and time ports. Valerian says the people of Syrte seem to be limited in their space travel, meaning they have not discovered the space and time jumps. Laureline agrees with the assessment, saying...